When an Assam-based contestant appeared, Vishal praised Zubeen as “one of the greatest of all time” and said that “a talent like him could never be born again in India.” Shreya performed Zubeen’s beloved Assamese song “Mayabini,” while Vishal sang “Jaane Kya Chahe Mann Bawra” in his memory
A still from Indian Idol 16
The auditions for Indian Idol 16 started recently. And at the start of this new season, audiences will witness an emotional and unforgettable moment when judges Shreya Ghoshal and Vishal Dadlani pay tribute to the late Zubeen Garg. Zubeen, one of the most influential Assamese musical musicians, perished in a swimming accident in Singapore. During the tryouts, when an Assam-based contestant appeared on stage, Vishal remembered Zubeen and remarked that a talent like him could never be born in India.
Shreya Ghoshal and Vishal Dadlani pay tribute
Vishal stated in a recent promo video that, “Assam is one of the most musical places… You come from the place where Zubeen Garg was born and brought up. He was one of the biggest stars born in India, as an Assamese, losing Zubeen is not a small thing. He was one of the greatest of all time.” Shreya Ghoshal later performed an Assamese song Mayabini as a tribute to Zubeen Garg. Vishal also sung 'Jaane kya chahe mann bawra' as an homage to the late singer Zubeen Garg.
After Zubeen Garg's demise, 'Mayabini' became a sorrow anthem throughout Assam and beyond. The song has been played in homes, public places, and on social media as fans come together to mourn their loss. From Guwahati to towns across India, the song represents a shared grief and reverence for the late performer. Zubeen Garg's songs had a far-reaching impact beyond his own state.
Garg was particularly attached to the song 'Mayabini'. In 2019, he stated, "This song (Mayabini) is a fantasy for me. When I die, this will be the song that plays." Following his death, the song was played often during tributes, representing the realisation of his request. The lyrics of 'Mayabini': "Nijanor gaan morXekh hobo bhabotumar bukut" have proven especially important to mourners. They loosely translate as "My song of loneliness will end, I believe, at your heart."
Zubeen Garg's untimely demise
Zubeen has written and recorded approximately 38,000 songs in 40 languages, played dozens of instruments, and directed and appeared in films and videos, making him a legend in Assam.
Zubeen Garg was regarded as one of Assam's most influential musicians. He has even directed and acted in several films and music videos. On September 19, 2025, the singer was in Singapore on a yacht outing when he fell unconscious while swimming. Zubeen was declared deceased at the hospital. The police are currently investigating the circumstances of his death.
Five people, including the famed singer's cousin Sandipan Garg, his manager Siddhartha Sharma, musician Shekharjyoti Goswami, vocalist Amritprava Mahanta, and North East India Festival organizer Shyamkanu Mahanta, have been detained and are currently in police custody.
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